Biokinesiology

Biokinesiology

A fast growing field for healthier future.

From running a company’s wellness program to treating an injury
as a physical therapist, experienced professionals are needed for educating, managing and working in a variety of settings to encourage and promote active living.

Biokinesiology performance professionals are found in many workplaces, including health care, education, recreational businesses and corporations.

Why study biokinesiology?

  • Work as leaders in promoting active lifestyles through education, management, training, coaching, therapy or any number of roles.
  • Enhance people's lives by increasing their ability to live actively.
  • Enter a fast-growing and rewarding career.

Dr. Razo and Dr. Petta are so much more than professors and advisors. They were some of my greatest encouragers. I wasn’t a traditional student. I lived off-campus, was married and had a kid. They met me where I was at and supported me. I would not be where I am without them.

Alyssa Walton
2017 graduate — now helps run the top corporate fitness program in the world at Lincoln Industries in Lincoln, Nebraska
photo Alyssa Walton

Find your calling.

The biokinesiology team at Union knows a career dedicated to physical activity starts with the student. That’s why we help you become a leader, living a balanced lifestyle while enjoying Christian fellowship.

Why study at Union Adventist University?

  • Choose from two emphases: exercise science or health promotion.
  • Learn from professors who are experts in their field—including multiple physical therapists, and the professor-to-student ratio makes it easy for you to interact with these professionals
  • Each month, the program hosts Biokinesiology Connect sessions highlighting career-boosting topics such as professionalism, resume writing and graduate experiences. These sessions feature guest speakers working in the fields you want to know about: rehabilitation therapies, fitness, and wellness.

I was in the HHP department all four years at Union, and I loved every minute! One of my favorite experiences was the athletic injuries class that I took. Everything in that class pertained to what I want to do for a living as a physical therapist. It was very hands-on, going beyond the class lecture to put what we learned into practice. We actually practiced wrapping injuries and assessing our classmates who walked in the door pretending to be injured. This has been great preparation for my future.

Jamie Stanley
2013 graduate — now a physical therapist assistant in Florida
photo Jamie Stanley

Majors and minors

The Biokinesiology Program offers majors in the following areas: 

Biokinesiology — four-year bachelor of science degree with an emphasis in exercise science (Degree Completion Guide)

Biokinesiology — four year bachelor of science degree with an emphasis in health promotion (Degree Completion Guide)

You may also pair a minor in health promotion or personal training with any major.

Your career options

Athletic trainer

Specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating muscle and bone injuries and illnesses.

Job outlook
13% growth (faster than average)

Median pay
$60,250

Strength and Conditioning Coach

A strength and conditioning coach is a fitness expert whose main engagement with clients is to enhance performance and prevent or rehabilitate injuries.

Job outlook
6.7% growth

Median pay
$68,089

Meet the team